January 13, 2022
Planning Commission meeting

Public Comments

70 Comments

X Date X ZIP Code

Kathy
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Kathy (37920), November 30, 2021 at 9:06 PM

I am a 14 year resident of Martha Washington Heights. I purchased my home here because of the county and residential zoning and the lack of commercial development and traffic that it brings. Me and my family are vehemently opposed to rezoning of this lot to SC or any other commercial zone. This is a residential family neighborhood and we want to keep it that way. The opinion of one property owner in this community shouldn't overrule the many voices that want it to remain residential.

November 30, 2021
at 9:06 PM

Linda
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Linda (37920), December 1, 2021 at 10:44 AM

I oppose the request to rezone 0 Mount Vernon Road, Cases# 12-A-21-SP and 12-G-21-RZ. Commuters and neighbors along Alcoa Highway need stores, restaurants, and other services enjoyed by residents in other parts of the county. However, there are plenty of vacant and rundown properties along the nearly completed Woodson to Maloney section that fill those needs and are awaiting redevelopment. A shopping center at the location proposed for rezoning, regardless of the prospective business, is unnecessary and ill timed. Further, the property stands at the entrance of Martha Washington Heights neighborhood which has about 150 houses with mature trees and well maintained houses. Prior to road construction a neighborhood entrance sign and landscaping with flowers and shrubs enhanced the neighborhood's attractiveness. A shopping center would do the opposite and detract from the value of our homes, increase traffic, and significantly impact the neighbors on Custis with light pollution and noise. As a resident of Martha Washington Heights neighborhood -- even with the scruffy looking entrance we are left with now but hope to improve -- I urge you to deny the request for rezoning. Thank you.

PS - Perhaps not applicable to the cases at this point but there is no sign posted at the property notifying people about the public hearing on December 9.

December 1, 2021
at 10:44 AM

jewel
37920

12-G-21-RZ
jewel (37920), December 1, 2021 at 3:21 PM

I object to the proposed commercial zoning referenced as case #12-g-21-rz. a very large portion on both sides of alcoa highway have numerous commercial vacant properties available for occupancy and use. this proposal encroaches upon the private and existing, established neighborhood of martha washington heights.

December 1, 2021
at 3:21 PM

Jeff
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Jeff (37920), December 2, 2021 at 5:08 PM

I would request this zoning change be denied. The presence of a shopping center at this location would be extremely detrimental to the residents of Martha Washington Heights. There’s plenty of unoccupied retail space along Alcoa Highway. Please allow us to keep the last bit of green space that shields us from the ever expanding expressway.

December 2, 2021
at 5:08 PM

Diane
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Diane (37920), December 3, 2021 at 9:41 AM

I am directly influenced by the re zoning and building of said shopping center and wish you would vote against. We have one small acre of trees and shrub, bird and animal habitat between us and the Alcoa Hwy speedway. What do you want this sweet Scruffy City to become? Little by little it happens, another Nashville. ( We lived there and have seen the massive development and how loss of tree and green space have increased the heat.) There are so many spots along that road that seem ready for development.

Please let us keep our tiny green space. Is Knoxville just about business now? Let us take a stand and use space ready for business that exists along that road. We are all ready losing acres of mature hardwoods for a massive apt. project off Malony Road.

December 3, 2021
at 9:41 AM

Lois
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Lois (37920), December 4, 2021 at 8:43 AM

This small piece of property is the last remaining buffer between our neighborhood and the highway. We have watched trees come down and wildlife habitats that had been there for years disrupted and destroyed. The neighborhood was officially a bird sanctuary as well- please reconsider this. It is a small but it’s all we have left!

December 4, 2021
at 8:43 AM

Stephanie
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Stephanie (37920), December 4, 2021 at 10:31 AM

I am opposed to the rezoning of this property. With such an abundance of vacant commercial properties in the vicinity it seems thoughtless to consider removing more green space before working on bringing the dilapidated commercial properties back to life. I am not opposed to development of the area in general, but it needs to be done in a way that adds to the beauty and vibrancy of our community, keeping wildlife and current residents in mind. Having lived in many cities across the U.S. I have witnessed plenty of development done both impeccably and poorly, and I want more for our community and our wonderful city than thoughtless, quick money making, junk development. What will this add to the currently dilapidated strip? Take care of that first.

December 4, 2021
at 10:31 AM

M. Nicole
37920

12-G-21-RZ
M. Nicole (37920), December 4, 2021 at 1:44 PM

My family and I strongly oppose the re-zoning of the 1.21 acre parcel at 2816 Alcoa Hwy to Mixed Use Special District zoning (case 12-A-21-SP). We purchased our home in the Martha Washington Heights neighborhood because of the low traffic, low crime, the well-kept houses and the walkable streets. The number of residents who exercise and walk their dogs through the neighborhood is amazing and wonderful. Having a pedestrian-friendly neighborhood benefits the health of the residents, benefits the community and the participating residents serve as a form of neighborhood watch. A shopping center at the beginning of our neighborhood would be harmful to the residents of MWH. The vehicular traffic would increase dramatically, as might crime. This would result in decreased property values and affect the safety of neighborhood residents. According to the Knox County property tax records the owner of the 1.21 acre parcel also owns the adjacent parcel where the vacant shopping center sits and he owns a plethora of commercial properties throughout Knoxville. He is not a resident of MWH and it's clear that preserving the integrity of the neighborhood is not uppermost in his mind.

December 4, 2021
at 1:44 PM

Denise
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Denise (37920), December 4, 2021 at 8:41 PM

As a resident of Martha Washington Heights for almost 50years I am mortified to read about the proposed use of the 1.21acres near the entrance to the subdivision.It is a lovely neighborhood.The property values would plummet and traffic would increase exponentially.I am very disturbed by the ease with which others try to slide things past the residents.

December 4, 2021
at 8:41 PM

Walter
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Walter (37920), December 5, 2021 at 7:12 PM

The entrance to a residential subdivision defines its community. It is shared by all. Previously this entrance was curved providing seclusion from Alcoa Highway. That is all gone now with the new Dresser Road becoming the frontage road access to Martha Washington Heights which has open us up visually to new road work and bridges. Adding a commercial area at this entrance would further detract from the quite, woodsy feel of this subdivision of old homes. Do not redefine this community by rezoning this property.

December 5, 2021
at 7:12 PM

Walter
37920

12-A-21-SP
Walter (37920), December 5, 2021 at 7:21 PM

Multiple empty business locations fill this sector. The need for additional mixed use is not needed and would be detrimental to the entrance of the homes in Martha Washington Heights.

December 5, 2021
at 7:21 PM

Darryl & Cindy
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Darryl & Cindy (37920), December 6, 2021 at 8:53 AM

I respectfully request that the rezoning request be denied for this case. This would create adverse effects to the residents of this subdivision, as the request covers the entry way and another side road which is the primary access to the subdivision, and would be extremely detrimental to the neighborhood and adjacent neighbors, due to increased traffic, blockage of the entry and property value to owners who have lived in this subdivision 40 years plus. Thank you for your consideration to NO REZONE.

December 6, 2021
at 8:53 AM

Stephanie
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Stephanie (37920), December 6, 2021 at 9:10 AM

I am a resident of Martha Washington Heights. Please DO NOT grant the rezoning request to Mr. Monday. Our neighborhood is nice and quiet and still somewhat secluded. I am worried about the traffic, pollution (noise, light, air) and possible unsavory activity, as shopping centers are often the scenes of criminal pursuits. We are finally getting some semblance of peace and order back into our neighborhood after the long period of highway construction. Now, Mr. Monday, in his greed, wants to ruin all of that. I and many residents of MWH are sick of greedy developers running roughshod over current residents. Again, please do NOT grant this rezoning request. Thank you.

December 6, 2021
at 9:10 AM

Joanne
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Joanne (37920), December 6, 2021 at 10:17 AM

I am very opposed to a business or businesses occupying the proposed sight. This is a very nice, quiet neighborhood and I feel the added traffic and people would be a detriment to the quiet snd safe feeling of our neighborhood. We are not willing to sacrifice our quiet neighborhood for businesses to invade our privacy! There is already a shopping center in very close to this proposed sight. How about reviving this center.

December 6, 2021
at 10:17 AM

Cassie
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Cassie (37920), December 6, 2021 at 10:31 AM

I do not support a business at the entrance of Martha Washington Heights neighborhood. We walk to the neighborhood every night and my son has walks to friends houses as well. The increased traffic would greatly impact the peacefulness and safety of the neighborhood and I do not believe it would add value.

December 6, 2021
at 10:31 AM

Bruce and Lisa
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Bruce and Lisa (37920), December 6, 2021 at 11:02 AM

We adamantly oppose the re-zoning of the 1.21 acre parcel at 2816 Alcoa Hwy to Mixed Use Special District zoning (case 12-A-21-SP). This is a peaceful neighborhood with low crime and families that enjoy walks in their neighborhood. There are many commercial locations within close proximity that are sitting abandoned that would serve as much better commercial locations. To put a business on this small parcel, at the main entrance of the neighborhood brings no value to its residents or the community. This addition would only devalue all of our investments and bring more traffic and unwanted elements into the area.

December 6, 2021
at 11:02 AM

Charles
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Charles (37920), December 6, 2021 at 3:56 PM

I oppose Amendment 12-G-21-RZ as well as 12-A-21-SP. This seems to be a sudden move that has not until the last day or so even been accompanied by a notice sign at the subject parcel location. These amendments would negatively affect our neighborhood; approval would be contrary to the will of the people impacted. If the owner wishes to see development that suits the character and harmony of the neighborhood, why doesn't he reserve such small parcels in his vast inventory for green space? His parcels in commercial and industrial areas would still generate revenue and profits. Alternately, the owner could explore using his property as it is currently zoned. Given the shortage and high values of residential property these days, this wooded area could nest one or more upper bracket residences. This would improve neighborhood home values, instead of jeopardizing them as would an expanded nearby shopping center, with its consequences of added noise, congestion, loitering, light pollution, etc. In contrast to the shortage of quality green space and residential properties in our immediate area, there is already an abundance of unused commercial space spread throughout this area, on both sides of Alcoa Highway fronting this parcel. Thank you for your careful consideration in representing the people on this issue.

View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20211206155658.pdf

December 6, 2021
at 3:56 PM

Susan
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Susan (37920), December 6, 2021 at 5:10 PM

I have been a resident of Martha Washington Heights for over 30 years. During this time there has been talk about making a safer entrance into our neighborhood. After many years, construction on Alcoa Highway began. Now after several years of construction, Martha Washington Heights has a safe entrance into the neighborhood. Rezoning this property to commercial use will once again cause unsafe conditions for residents of this neighborhood coming and going.

Besides the huge safety issue, having any commercial business this close to the new ramp into the neighborhood takes away the visibility for visitors, commercial delivery and repair services coming into the neighborhood.

I request that you deny the rezoning of this property.

December 6, 2021
at 5:10 PM

Kelly
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Kelly (37920), December 6, 2021 at 8:13 PM

I oppose 12-G-21-RZ and 12-A-21-SP. MWH is a quiet subdivision and that is why people choose to live there. The area has more than enough empty commercial space that should be used first. Why destroy more trees and animal habitat. This area has already been disturbed enough by the construction on Alcoa Highway. This space would add more congestion and pollution to a peaceful neighborhood. I do not see any added value to to adding additional commercial space this area. This area needs more green space and less pavement. What are the environmental impacts to the neighborhood?

December 6, 2021
at 8:13 PM

John
37920

12-G-21-RZ
John (37920), December 6, 2021 at 8:48 PM

I oppose the rezoning of the small parcel of land at the entrance to Martha Washington Heights subdivision, of which I am a resident. The eventual presence of a business on this property would increase traffic in our neighborhood, devalue the residential properties next to the parcel in question, and likely eventually add yet another empty business location to the area. As an option, a nice green space would make a very pleasant entrance to the subdivision.

December 6, 2021
at 8:48 PM

Matt
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Matt (37920), December 6, 2021 at 9:08 PM

This rezoning of a residential area as a shopping center should not be permitted. It's a beautiful area and nice, quiet neighborhood and the change in zoning and the shopping center would adversely affect all of that. There are plenty of other nearby commercial areas that could use an upgrade and there is no need to take away more green space and infringe on a neighborhood. I can't understand why this would be allowed to move forward without greater notice and opportunity for comments on it.

December 6, 2021
at 9:08 PM

Sharon
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Sharon (37920), December 6, 2021 at 9:11 PM

I object to the proposed commercial zoning case #12G 21 RZ. As others have stated our is a community of families who enjoy the peace and quiet of our well established neighborhood. This property is our only buffer against the noise from Alcoa Hwy. Besides lowering our property value due to dumpsters and trucks unloading in our backyard this will completely degrade what we have worked to build in our neighborhood where we have enjoyed peace , quiet and nature.

December 6, 2021
at 9:11 PM

Dinah
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Dinah (37920), December 7, 2021 at 7:40 AM

Please do not pass this rezoning request. it would be a hardship for the entire older neighborhood of Martha Washington Heights. Our entryway was just finished and we don't want to add added traffic with a shopping center at the edge of our entrance. There is already a shopping center very close to where this would be if built. It would devalue the property of the homeowners that would be next to a shopping center. Thank you.

December 7, 2021
at 7:40 AM

Jane
37920

12-A-21-SP
Jane (37920), December 7, 2021 at 8:47 AM

This residential property is now the new face for our Martha Washington Heights subdivision . This entrance is a reflection of our community and of our investments in this community. The incursion of a business structure, signs, parking lot, dumpsters, light and ground pollution at the entrance of our subdivision is a direct threat to those investments. The plague of empty businesses along this corridor of Dresser Rd. also has a negative effect on those investments. Please to do not add another until the Alcoa Highway Project proves this corridor is viable for businesses. I oppose the re-zoning of residential property case # 12-A-21–SP and ask the commissioners to visit our community before the final vote. I hope your decisions will support and validate this community and our investments in it….

December 7, 2021
at 8:47 AM

Stephanie
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Stephanie (37920), December 7, 2021 at 9:05 AM

I realize that I have already submitted a comment, but I would like to add to it. This tiny piece of property is a buffer between MWH and Alcoa Highway. It protects the neighborhood from traffic noise and light. There are other properties along this stretch of road that are surely more suitable for whatever Mr. Monday has in mind. Please, please, DO NOT allow this parcel to be rezoned. Our property values and neighborhood aesthetic are at risk.

December 7, 2021
at 9:05 AM

Mary
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Mary (37920), December 7, 2021 at 9:09 AM

Please deny the request to approve the rezoning of the property on Dresser Road at the entrance to Martha Washington Heights subdivision. The area along Alcoa Highway has many commercial properties with empty buildings ready for commercial use. Three in particular were once shopping center/gas stations. Why clean out an area that is a buffer for the neighborhood for another commercial property when so many along that area of Alcoa Highway sit empty and ready for use?

The other concern is increased activity, noise and light pollution to an area that is currently a quiet, safe area. We already have two bars nearby that bring crime, murders to the area.

December 7, 2021
at 9:09 AM

Gerald
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Gerald (37920), December 7, 2021 at 9:34 AM

Please do not rezone this property. It was originally zoned residential and should stay that way. We've endured 4-years of Alcoa Hwy. construction and now he wants to put much more traffic on the entrance to our homes? Failed business buildings lining the road to this property include the former Hardee's, National Fitness, Window Tinting plus most of the strip center that contains the church. Odds are not good for new business to succeed there.

December 7, 2021
at 9:34 AM

Teddy
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Teddy (37920), December 7, 2021 at 11:46 AM

I would like to reiterate the below comment that has already been posted. Deny Deny Deny this rezoning. This will absolutely ruin this neighborhood.

Please deny the request to approve the rezoning of the property on Dresser Road at the entrance to Martha Washington Heights subdivision. The area along Alcoa Highway has many commercial properties with empty buildings ready for commercial use. Three in particular were once shopping center/gas stations. Why clean out an area that is a buffer for the neighborhood for another commercial property when so many along that area of Alcoa Highway sit empty and ready for use? The other concern is increased activity, noise and light pollution to an area that is currently a quiet, safe area. We already have two bars nearby that bring crime, murders to the area.

December 7, 2021
at 11:46 AM

Jack
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Jack (37920), December 7, 2021 at 2:52 PM

My wife and I oppose this rezoning.This tract is the last buffer between the Martha Washington Heights neighborhood entrance and commercial development on Alcoa Highway. Many people walk to and through the neighborhood and we do not want more automobile traffic through our neighborhood from a shopping destination just outside the entrance.

December 7, 2021
at 2:52 PM

Charlene
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Charlene (37920), December 7, 2021 at 2:54 PM

My husband and I do not support the rezoning of this property. As relatively new inhabitants of the wonderful neighborhood of Martha Washington Heights, we love the quiet and safety of our new home. A commercial property at the entrance to our neighborhood would be a blight that would decrease property values, increase traffic, and potentially increase crime. This is a family neighborhood with homeowners that are proud of their houses. We neither desire nor need this proposed commercial space.

December 7, 2021
at 2:54 PM

john
37920

12-G-21-RZ
john (37920), December 7, 2021 at 4:03 PM

This piece of property is the last remaining buffer between our neighborhood and the highway. We have watched trees come down and wildlife habitats that had been there for years disrupted and destroyed. The neighborhood was officially a bird sanctuary as well- please reconsider this. It is a small but it’s all we have left!

December 7, 2021
at 4:03 PM

Jayne
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Jayne (37920), December 7, 2021 at 4:04 PM

This small piece of property is the last remaining buffer between our neighborhood and the highway. We have watched trees come down and wildlife habitats that had been there for years disrupted and destroyed. The neighborhood was officially a bird sanctuary as well- please reconsider this. It is a small but it’s all we have left!

December 7, 2021
at 4:04 PM

Stephen
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Stephen (37920), December 7, 2021 at 6:18 PM

We have been residents of Martha Washington Heights for over 40 years. We strongly oppose this rezoning request. We are concerned that our neighborhood would no longer feel safe.Please save our neighborhood! Susan and Stephen

December 7, 2021
at 6:18 PM

Charles
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Charles (37920), December 7, 2021 at 7:36 PM

At approximately 1.25 acres, considering the practical use of a tract that size, and the terrain. The tract appears to have no practical use that would be beneficial to the residents of Martha Washington Heights. This tract is also in close proximity to other commercial properties that have been vacant for some time. This is just a bad idea.

December 7, 2021
at 7:36 PM

Janice
37920

12-A-21-SP
Janice (37920), December 7, 2021 at 10:15 PM

I am a homeowner in the Martha Washington Heights subdivision. As a property owner, I am voicing concern over the proposed rezoning case of 12-A-21-SP. I would like to request the delay of voting on the proposal for at least 180 days to give the community an opportunity to understand the impact of this development on our neighborhood in regard to safety, traffic flow, noise levels and other environmental considerations. This directly impacts our neighborhood as well as property values. To date, there has not be an opportunity to have a community meeting with the owner of the property to better understand this proposal. As an engaged community citizen, I respectfully ask that you postpone voting on this proposal in order to allow for the appropriate vetting of this important decision.

December 7, 2021
at 10:15 PM

Micaela
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Micaela (37920), December 8, 2021 at 10:21 AM

I live in Marthe Washington Height, and I am opposed to the rezoning of the lots adjacent to our neighborhood as shopping center. Not only is there a shopping center already there with virtually all stores empty, there land adjacent is very steep and fully wooded. The grading of the land to make it suitable for building would subject the area to serious erosion, probably rapidly. The lack of woods would increase the traffic noise throughout the entire neighborhood, and possibly create traffic problems on our roads, which are not wide enough already.

December 8, 2021
at 10:21 AM

Jo Dell
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Jo Dell (37920), December 8, 2021 at 10:59 AM

I hope you will deny the rezoning request and sector plan change that is being requested by Mr. Monday. I have lived in Martha Washington Heights for 38 years. Our neighborhood is very family-friendly and the homes here, while older, are very well-maintained. We have a good sense of community in this area. The Alcoa Highway work seems as though it has gone on forever and the entrance to our subdivision was closed for months. We are glad this section is finally complete; however, now it seems that our neighborhood is under siege again from development pressures, using the road work as an excuse to change zoning. The 2012 sector plan deliberately excluded this parcel at the entrance to our neighborhood from the Mixed Use District and since it is only 1.21 acres, seems very inappropriate for Shopping Center zoning. It is my understanding that some of my neighbors have approached Mr. Monday about selling the parcel to the neighborhood so we can retain the residential zoning, but he has refused. Alcoa Highway has a surplus of depressed property zoned for Shopping Center use, so we don't need to add any more to this. This parcel is zoned residential and does not front Alcoa Highway. Instead, it fronts Dresser Road as it approaches Mt. Vernon Drive and could just as easily be developed as residential. Please honor the work put into the 2012 Sector Plan by planning staff as well as our community, and deny this rezoning.

December 8, 2021
at 10:59 AM

12-G-21-RZ
Nan (37920), December 8, 2021 at 11:59 AM

I am writing in opposition to the vote to rezone this parcel from Residential to Shopping Center. This property now exists in its current "state" only because of the filling of the ravine to allow for the Alcoa Hwy Bridge/access road project(s). This property adjoins the back yards of some of our residents. There is currently commercial property vacant and available on both sides of Alcoa Hwy that could be repurposed that is already available for commercial use without destroying what little green space that remains. The Dresser Road/access road contains remnants of Court South, Hardees, Pilot Convenience store and other unsightly areas that are abandoned and unmaintained. I do not think a new shopping center zone would help with the appearance to the entrance of our neighborhood and would likely just create more unsightly space and dangerous traffic congestion. Traffic, blind turns, and related noise and congestion would detract from our neighborhood which has historically been quiet and nature oriented having been an unofficial bird sanctuary for years. I would like to request your vote against rezoning this property. Thank you.

December 8, 2021
at 11:59 AM

John
37920

12-G-21-RZ
John (37920), December 8, 2021 at 12:18 PM

-Seems like the Commission would want to wait until the Small Area Study of this Alcoa Hwy Corridor was completed (early 2022) before granting this additional damaging change to the neighborhood. Would have better data to work with.-Many neighbors are in favor of adding residential mass to the corridor area, so the existing blighted commercial areas can be rehabilitated. This change would go in the opposite direction.

December 8, 2021
at 12:18 PM

Charles
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Charles (37920), December 8, 2021 at 12:26 PM

I oppose the rezoning request. There is plenty of abandoned shopping center space already present on Dresser Road. Please renovate and use it instead. This lot is at the front of neighborhood's main entrance. I think having green space there instead of a commercial establishment looks much better and adds to the more value of the neighborhood and its homes.

December 8, 2021
at 12:26 PM

Charles
37920

12-A-21-SP
Charles (37920), December 8, 2021 at 12:26 PM

I oppose the rezoning request. There is plenty of abandoned shopping center space already present on Dresser Road. Please renovate and use it instead. This lot is at the front of neighborhood's main entrance. I think having green space there instead of a commercial establishment looks much better and adds to the more value of the neighborhood and its homes.

December 8, 2021
at 12:26 PM

Susan
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Susan (37920), December 8, 2021 at 12:44 PM

I am in opposition to the rezoning of the property at the entrance of Martha Washington Heights. I am a resident of MWH.

December 8, 2021
at 12:44 PM

Susan
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Susan (37920), December 8, 2021 at 12:44 PM

I am in opposition to the rezoning of the property at the entrance of Martha Washington Heights. I am a resident of MWH.

December 8, 2021
at 12:44 PM

Chris
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Chris (37920), December 8, 2021 at 12:47 PM

As a resident of Martha Washington Heights, I speak in opposition of the proposed rezoning of the property at the entrance to our neighborhood.

December 8, 2021
at 12:47 PM

Rhonda
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Rhonda (37920), December 8, 2021 at 1:04 PM

I am in direct opposition for the property at the entrance of Martha Washington Heights Alcoa Highway entrance to be rezoned from residential to Shopping Center. As it is we have lost a good portion of our entrance to the overall Alcoa Highway Road Project. I would highly recommend the alternative action of revitalizing the existing buildings beginning with the Southgate Shopping Center and proceeding to the abandoned Pilot on the east side of the highway as a more efficient and cost effective measure. Additionally, the community has already lost the designated bird sanctuary at the front of the subdivision and a multitude of other wild animals to the highway project. The continued environmental impact would ultimately be devastating to the animals that make our community their home. I would also recommend the revitalization of the businesses/buildings existing on the west side of Alcoa Highway as well.

December 8, 2021
at 1:04 PM

Scott
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Scott (37920), December 8, 2021 at 1:08 PM

I am in direct opposition for the property at the entrance of Martha Washington Heights Alcoa Highway entrance to be rezoned from residential to Shopping Center. As it is we have lost a good portion of our entrance to the overall Alcoa Highway Road Project. I would highly recommend the alternative action of revitalizing the existing buildings beginning with the Southgate Shopping Center and proceeding to the abandoned Pilot on the east side of the highway as a more efficient and cost-effective measure. Additionally, the community has already lost the designated bird sanctuary at the front of the subdivision and a multitude of other wild animals to the highway project. The continued environmental impact would ultimately be devastating to the animals that make our community their home. I would also recommend the revitalization of the businesses/buildings existing on the west side of Alcoa Highway as well.

December 8, 2021
at 1:08 PM

William
37920

12-G-21-RZ
William (37920), December 8, 2021 at 2:13 PM

It would seem the request for rezoning would diminish greatly the peace and tranquility of the. Martha Washington heights homeowners. It also would seem totally unnecessary with all the properties already unoccupied down the street in a state of wasting away.Please do not undermine the integrity of this beautiful old and active community.

December 8, 2021
at 2:13 PM

Diane
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Diane (37920), December 8, 2021 at 2:18 PM

This is my second comment, due to I feel like I have so much to say.First, why did Mr Monday do this now? At the Holidays? Thinking we would just roll over and not notice amidst the holidays? Everyone, every family and child busy?

We are just waking up, we as Martha Washington Heights are just trying to get the news out! We are just wanting to save our little green acre! Please come to this space, see the desolate abandoned businesses up and down both sides of the new interstate Alcoa Hwy. Give us our one remaining little peace PEACE of greenery. Seems like this whole process is so sided to favor the developer while the little guy has to really stand up and fight to be heard. While all along, living and raising families and trying to stay healthy ect. a Mr Monday can just decide to change our world over here so easily. It is not right. Once again I beg of you to vote against this re zone. Seems like it should be required by said developer to meet with adjoining neighborhood to discuss plans? Again , the system is geared to favor developer. He will not even tell us his plans. My plan, our neighborhood plans are to keep our little green acre.

Vote NO.

December 8, 2021
at 2:18 PM

Chris
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Chris (37920), December 8, 2021 at 2:48 PM

I want to echo the well written words of my many neighbors in MWH and cordially request this development be vetoed.

I have lived here 10 years and the green nature of the neighborhood is what makes it so great! I also agree with others on points regarding the unoccupied businesses very close by. Why rezone that space when there has been unoccupied businesses close by the whole decade I have beenhere.

December 8, 2021
at 2:48 PM

Kristin
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Kristin (37920), December 9, 2021 at 1:48 PM

I recently purchased a home in the Martha Washington Hts. neighborhood and am very opposed to the rezoning of the neighborhood entrance from residential to Shopping Center. The quiet neighborhood is home to families with children, elderly folks and is currently a safe place to live. A shopping center located so close to our homes will bring unwanted through traffic as well as safety issues for this old, quaint, quiet neighborhood.

December 9, 2021
at 1:48 PM

Linda
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Linda (37920), December 10, 2021 at 1:18 PM

Submitted at the meeting
View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20211210131825.pdf

December 10, 2021
at 1:18 PM

Mary
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Mary (37920), December 27, 2021 at 9:03 AM

Bob Monday already owns several dilapidated buildings all over South Knoxville, including the Parkway Hotel which recently burned to the ground. Several of his building/properties are already located in commercial zones in areas badly in need of investment and new businesses. He just wants this one rezoned so he can sell it for more money someday.

The residents who live along Alcoa Hwy have already sacrificed enough to have the ramps built. Land for the ramps was taken by eminent domain from several upstanding residents. They do not deserve to have their property values further lowered by throwing up more businesses in their back and front yards. It would be a crime to grant a rezoning to a greedy opportunist like Bob Monday.

December 27, 2021
at 9:03 AM

Lawson
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Lawson (37920), December 28, 2021 at 3:41 PM

I am against the re-zoning of this property. The Alcoa highway sector plan specifically left this property as a buffer for our neighborhood and stated the need to protect and improve this buffer not develop it, please vote no and adhere to your original plan.

December 28, 2021
at 3:41 PM

Jeremy
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Jeremy (37920), December 29, 2021 at 5:23 PM

As a resident of Martha Washington Heights I kindly request to vote against the rezoning to a shopping center as stated in proposal 12-G-21-RZ. I have lived here for five years and have enjoyed the safety and tranquility that this neighborhood has to offer. I have watched people lose their property due to the ramp construction project and have had to deal with prolonged entries and exits into the neighborhood due to that. Now with the Addition of four more lanes of traffic the noisy Howell of traffic has been amplified. One of the things I still like about this neighborhood is the relative safety compared to other places in Knoxville with regards to burglary and vandalism. I believe the introduction of a shopping center would only lead to Increased transient subjects amidst our neighborhood and potentially lead to increased attraction to thieves. I propose that the city councilman vote to revitalize and modernize the existing structures as others have requested.

December 29, 2021
at 5:23 PM

Raymond
37920

1-B-22-SU
Raymond (37920), December 31, 2021 at 9:55 AM

1. How many units are they proposing to add to this property? 2. Are they removing the existing units on the property or adding to? 3. Is this going to be more "Income based property"? 4. Has a traffic study been performed to see how the added congestion will impact the already difficult intersection of Red Bud and Sevierville Pike? 5. If this is rental property, will it be maintained as poorly as the current rentals on that property?

December 31, 2021
at 9:55 AM

Rachel
37920

12-A-21-SP
Rachel (37920), January 6, 2022 at 9:17 AM

I think it is ridiculous to rezone this property to allow for another strip mall. There are so many empty or almost empty strip malls in close proximity to this parcel that should be rehabbed and filled before considering this option. Alcoa Highway has so much graffiti and decaying buildings and we need to encourage businesses to fix this. Also this parcel is a much needed barrier between homes and yards from the increasingly busy and loud Alcoa highway traffic. These people purchased their homes with the expectation the parcel was non commercial and would stay that way.

January 6, 2022
at 9:17 AM

Michael
37920

12-A-21-SP
Michael (37920), January 6, 2022 at 10:06 AM

I appose the re zoning mention in the above case. The shopping center adjacent to this property is a shopping center and is not being used.

January 6, 2022
at 10:06 AM

Ralph
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Ralph (37920), January 6, 2022 at 5:30 PM

• The 2012 Sector Plan did not include the lot in question in its Mixed Use – Special District Zone, MU-SD, therefore rezoning the 1.21 acres is contradictory to the Planning Commission’s own plan. I urge the Planning Commissioners to follow their stated objectives of “protecting the character of neighborhoods adjacent to Alcoa Highway, creating more intense buffers for the established neighborhoods, and enhancing neighborhoods with parks and open spaces.”

When the highway construction began, Martha Washington Heights (MWH) residents were promised a buffer to the Alcoa Highway traffic and beautification of the entrance, not further development.

• There is abundant MU-SD zoning nearby awaiting redevelopment, thus adding the requested property’s 1.21 acres does not enhance redevelopment and negatively impacts the adjacent neighborhood, MWH. Village Plaza Shopping Center, Hardees, National Fitness, are examples of businesses that need to revitalized or redeveloped.

• Please vote no to more noise, traffic, and more displacement of the MWH area’s flora and fauna.• It is good common sense to vote no to this rezoning request!

January 6, 2022
at 5:30 PM

Jonathan
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Jonathan (37920), January 6, 2022 at 6:00 PM

There are so many open strip malls already in this area. All we do in this area now is build buildings that end up going vacant and are dilapidated eyesores. Use what we have.

January 6, 2022
at 6:00 PM

Jonathan
37920

12-A-21-SP
Jonathan (37920), January 6, 2022 at 6:08 PM

There are so many available strip malls in this area. We don’t need another building to be built, then the business closes, and we have a dilapidated eyesore. We do that a lot in this area and it’s just ugly. Use what we already have.

January 6, 2022
at 6:08 PM

R.J.&Lynn Rose
37920

12-G-21-RZ
R.J.&Lynn Rose (37920), January 6, 2022 at 6:18 PM

Please vote NO on 12-G-21-RZ. Help us preserve our stable,quiet, older beautiful family neighborhood where we have lived over 53 years. Please don’t allow it to be cheapened.

January 6, 2022
at 6:18 PM

Jackie
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Jackie (37920), January 8, 2022 at 9:53 AM

The Martha Washington Heights residents, especially the ones closest to the highway have had to deal with a lot of interruptions for the last few years. It was once a quiet secluded neighborhood. Now, we are not only having to live with the new highway at our back doors, but also the possibility of more activity with construction for a new shopping facility. There is a shopping center RIGHT NEXT TO IT that has been vacant for YEARS. The only one there is Shift Church. Why build another building (while destroying more trees and taking away our safe and quiet lifestyle) when there is already one available?! Give it a makeover and it’s good to go. There is no need to build more when there is a building already available. Please keep in mind that we all love how quiet and safe this neighborhood is. Please don’t continue to take that away from us.

January 8, 2022
at 9:53 AM

Gary
37920

12-A-21-SP
Gary (37920), January 8, 2022 at 5:37 PM

See attached PDF
View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20220108173748.pdf

January 8, 2022
at 5:37 PM

Kayla
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Kayla (37920), January 9, 2022 at 8:44 PM

I oppose the rezoning along Alcoa Hwy next to Martha Washington Heights. The increase in noise and traffic has increased exponentially since the start of the Alcoa expansion. Now the businesses that were located along this stretch have almost all gone out of business. Why should we encourage the growth of yet another strip mall when everything else has closed? Not to mention the threat to privacy and property to those unfortunate enough to have to share a property line with the current failed real estate. Knoxville claims to be a green city and yet everything green gets bulldozed down and made a part of the concrete jungle. Enough is enough. Just vote no.

January 9, 2022
at 8:44 PM

Mark
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Mark (37920), January 11, 2022 at 10:50 AM

Vote no on re-zoning of this property or change the name to the "Monday Small Area Sector Plan". He need only acquire one more property to connect all three of his existing properties. As his adjacent residential neighbor and commercial property neighbors for the past 34 years, we know exactly the commitment Mr.Monday has to his properties. Protect our adjacent properties and our neighborhood’s integrity by adhering to the Alcoa Highway Long Term and Small Area sector plans that specifically state the need for this protection.

January 11, 2022
at 10:50 AM

Ralph
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Ralph (37920), January 11, 2022 at 12:54 PM

• The 2012 Sector Plan did not include the lot in question in its Mixed Use – Special District Zone, MU-SD, therefore rezoning the 1.21 acres is contradictory to the Planning Commission’s own plan. I urge the Planning Commissioners to follow their stated objectives of "protecting the character of neighborhoods adjacent to Alcoa Highway, creating more intense buffers for the established neighborhoods, and enhancing neighborhoods with parks and open spaces." When the highway construction began, Martha Washington Heights (MWH) residents were promised a buffer to the Alcoa Highway traffic and beautification of the entrance, not further development.

• There is abundant MU-SD zoning nearby awaiting redevelopment, thus adding the requested property’s 1.21 acres does not enhance redevelopment and negatively impacts the adjacent neighborhood, MWH. Village Plaza Shopping Center, Hardees, National Fitness, are examples of businesses that need to revitalized or redeveloped.

• Please vote no to more noise, traffic, and more displacement of the MWH area’s flora and fauna.

• The Planning Commission website indicates approval of the rezoning because this is a "small extension of the existing Shopping Center zone." However, this small extension will invade the neighborhood. Please help revitalize and restore businesses lost to the five years of highway construction. Please make the area better, not worse!

January 11, 2022
at 12:54 PM

Nancye
37920

1-B-22-SU
Nancye (37920), January 12, 2022 at 10:45 AM

How will this effect the natural area and wildlife? Seems it might erode the Red Bud hillside where I’m already reluctant to drive on the north side close to the pedestrian bridge. Already too much traffic on Sevierville Pike which would be the main access road as it is the only southeast access to the county other than Chapman Highway. Experienced developers?

January 12, 2022
at 10:45 AM

Carrie
37920

1-B-22-SU
Carrie (37920), January 12, 2022 at 11:32 AM

Please see attached PDF requesting that this matter be postponed for further consideration and the basis for the request.

View Attachment

https://agenda.knoxplanning.org/attachments/20220112113231.pdf

January 12, 2022
at 11:32 AM

Wesley
37920

12-A-21-SP
Wesley (37920), January 12, 2022 at 12:52 PM

I do not believe commercial development of these properties will add to the overall value and safety of the surrounding areas and residents. If the property is to be developed the planners should know exactly the expected use.

January 12, 2022
at 12:52 PM

Wesley
37920

12-G-21-RZ
Wesley (37920), January 12, 2022 at 12:53 PM

I do not believe commercial development of these properties will add to the overall value and safety of the surrounding areas and residents. If the property is to be developed the planners should know exactly the expected use.

January 12, 2022
at 12:53 PM